Exercise 101: Stair-climbing

Stair-climbing Benefits

Climbing stairs is a great way to improve cardiovascular fitness because you can incorporate it throughout your day while at home, running errands, or at the gym on a stair-climbing machine. This will allow you to expend even more extra calories throughout the day.

Exercise Technique for Using a Stair-climber

Starting Position:

Keep your feet on the pedals. Do not let your heels hang off the back of the step and remember to push through the heel while doing the movement. Do not stay up on your toes.

If you have problems with your balance, hold on to the side rails or other area on the machine designed as a place for your hands. In doing so, it is important to maintain good posture. Do not lean over or stick out your buttocks while performing this exercise; this will place undue pressure on the low back.

Action:

Do not use small baby steps or deep exaggerated steps while performing the exercise; find a step size that feels comfortable.

Work at an intensity that promotes sweating but enables you to carry on a conversation.

Program:

Begin with 2 sessions per week of stair-climbing. Following a 5-8 minute gradual warm-up begin with low intensity stair-climbing for 10-15 minutes. Add 5 minutes (when able) per week. After 3 weeks, progress to 3 times per week for 20-30 minutes at a moderate intensity.

After each workout, stretch the hip flexors, thigh, hamstrings, and your calf muscles. Hold each stretch for 30-60 seconds.

Physical activity calorie calculator. American Council on Exercise website. Available at:
http://www.acefitness.org/acefit/healthy_living_tools_content.aspx?id=9. Accessed May 20, 2015.

Selecting and effectively using an ellipitical or stair climber. American College of Sports Medicine website. Available at: http://www.acsm.org/docs/brochures/elliptical-trainer65974E2E8E70.pdf?sfvrsn=2. Accessed May 20, 2015.

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.